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Rosendale Railroad Trestle

Description:

Offering beautiful views of the Shawangunk ridge and the Wallkill River, Ulster County’s Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is a popular spot for hikers, bikers, runners, and walkers. Opened in 1991, the trail extended from Gardiner to Rosendale — even though the rail bed itself goes about 11 miles further. Users were unable to continue along the trail due of the condition of the Rosendale trestle, a 114-year-old railroad bridge that extends across the Rondout Creek and Route 213 at a dizzying height of 150 feet. The trestle was in such poor condition that even walking across it was unsafe — until now. Thanks to the Wallkill Valley Land Trust and the Open Space Institute (http://www.osiny.org), the bridge’s infrastructure has been shored up, and new decking and railings installed. Outdoor enthusiasts can now bike and hike further — and enjoy even more spectacular views of the Gunks from atop the trestle.